Exeter City FC

Following a tender process undertaken in February and March 2017, East Devon District Council has chosen Devon based charity Football in the Community (FITC)as its preferred partner (subject to contract) to develop a pioneering sports hub at the Warren View Sports Ground in Exmouth, which is one of a number of sports and recreation grounds owned and protected by the council in Exmouth and across the district.

Although proposals for the 10 acre (4ha) site are at an early stage, the initial plans include a modern 3G synthetic surface pitch, as well as an education hub and other multi sport facilities. With its strong focus on learning, it is hoped that the initiative will not only open up opportunities for young people to pursue a future in sport, but will also create local jobs.

East Devon District Council and FITC are also anticipating involving other partners in the project and are hoping to attract additional funding and grants from sport governing bodies. The first phase of this project will see FITC gain further insight from local communities, sports clubs and current users on their views on their previous and proposed use of the Warren View Sports Ground.

The facilities at Warren View are currently available to use on a pay and play basis that will continue until the end of May 2017.

Councillor Darryl Nicholas, East Devon District Council’s lead councillor for sport and recreation, and ward member for Exmouth Brixington, said:

“I am delighted that we have chosen FITC as the organisation to take over the running of Warren View. This excellent sports and education charity has a proven track record in delivering first class community projects throughout the region including a number in operation over the years in Exmouth. FITC’s policy of inclusivity for all members of the community regardless of ethnicity, age, gender, physical ability, background or economic status is exactly the right fit for what the council would like to achieve with Warren View. Building the regenerated facility on an ethos of being inclusive will bring local residents together and create new opportunities for people of all abilities and ages.

“Keeping fit and active is an important part of everyone’s lives and the regenerated Warren View facility will play an important role in improving the quality of many people’s lives. It will also provide a key focal point in the region, providing good quality facilities for the benefit of local clubs, schools and colleges, and of course the general public.

Jamie Vittles, Head of Football in the Community said:

“Although our roots are football, we are all about physical activity and education for all. Our primary mission is improving health and wellbeing for all of the communities we serve.”

“We value feedback on the project and welcome opportunities to interact with interested parties.”

Interested parties can contact FITC's Catherine White at: catherine.white@ecfc.co.uk